Is a Pomeranian a Good Family Dog? A Guide for First-Time Pet Owners

Pomeranians are tiny, fluffy, and full of personality. But are they the right pet for your family, especially if you’ve never owned a dog before?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything step by step—what Pomeranians are like, how to prepare for one, and what to expect once they become part of your family.

Let’s dive in!

1. What Is a Pomeranian Like?

Pomeranians may be small, but they have BIG personalities! They are:

✔ Loving & Loyal – They love being around their family.
✔ Smart & Curious – They learn quickly but can be stubborn.
✔ Playful & Energetic – Even though they are tiny, they have a lot of energy!

But, they also have some challenges:
❌ Can Be Bossy – They often think they’re in charge!
❌ Fragile for Small Kids – Rough play can easily hurt them.

👉 Best for: Families with older kids and people who can give them attention.

2. Getting Your Home Ready for a Pomeranian

Before bringing a Pomeranian home, you need to make sure your house is safe and cozy for them.

✅ Step 1: Make Your Home Safe

• Keep small objects out of reach (they might swallow them!).
• Cover electrical cords and keep toxic plants away.
• Use pet gates to block off dangerous areas.

✅ Step 2: Buy Essential Supplies

✔ Food & Water Bowls – Small and easy to reach.
✔ Soft Bed & Crate – A comfy place to sleep.
✔ Toys & Chews – For playtime and teething.
✔ Brush & Nail Clippers – To keep them looking good.

✅ Step 3: Choose a Potty Spot

Decide if you’ll train them to:

• Go outside
• Use pee pads
• Use a dog litter box

Be patient! Potty training takes time.

3. How to Train a Pomeranian (Even If You’re a Beginner!)

Pomeranians are smart but love doing things their own way. Training them early is very important.

✅ Step 1: Start with Simple Commands

Teach sit, stay, come, and no with small treats and praise.

✅ Step 2: Set a Routine

• Feed, walk, and play at the same time every day.
• Keep training short and fun (5-10 minutes is enough).

✅ Step 3: Socialize Early

Let your Pom meet different people, pets, and new places so they don’t become shy or scared later.

4. Taking Care of a Pomeranian’s Coat & Health

Pomeranians have fluffy double coats that need regular care.

✅ Step 1: Brush Often

✔ Brush at least 3 times a week to stop tangles.
✔ Use a soft brush to be gentle on their skin.

✅ Step 2: Bathe Once a Month

✔ Use a mild dog shampoo to keep their fur soft.
✔ Dry them completely to avoid skin problems.

✅ Step 3: Trim Nails & Clean Teeth

✔ Nail trims every 2-3 weeks (long nails can hurt them!).
✔ Brush their teeth to stop bad breath and cavities.

5. How Much Exercise Do Pomeranians Need?

Even though they are small, Pomeranians love to move! They need 30-45 minutes of play or walks daily.

✅ Step 1: Short Walks

Since they have tiny legs, two or three short walks are better than one long one.

✅ Step 2: Fun Indoor Play

They love:
✔ Playing with toys
✔ Learning tricks
✔ Playing fetch or tug-of-war

👉 Tip: Don’t let them jump from high places—they can hurt their tiny legs!

6. What Should Pomeranians Eat?

A healthy diet keeps your Pom’s coat shiny and energy levels up.

✅ Step 1: Pick Good Dog Food

✔ High-protein food (chicken, turkey, or fish).
✔ No artificial colors or flavors.

✅ Step 2: Feed Them the Right Amount

• Puppies: 3-4 small meals a day.
• Adults: 2 small meals a day.

✅ Step 3: Always Have Fresh Water

Make sure they have clean water all day long.

7. Common Health Problems in Pomeranians

Like all dog breeds, Pomeranians have some health risks:

✔ Teeth Problems – Brush their teeth to avoid infections.
✔ Knee Issues – Avoid rough play and jumping from high places.
✔ Breathing Problems – Use a harness, not a collar, for walks.

👉 Regular vet check-ups can help prevent serious problems.

FAQs: First-Time Pomeranian Owner Questions

❓ What are the cons of having a Pomeranian?

✔ Needs a lot of grooming.
✔ Can be stubborn while training.
✔ Barks a lot (especially at strangers or noises).

❓ Is a Pomeranian high-maintenance?

Yes! They need daily attention, grooming, and training.

❓ Are Pomeranians good house dogs?

Yes! They are small, playful, and can live in apartments or houses.

❓ Are Pomeranians good for beginners?

Yes, if you’re patient and willing to train them properly.

❓ Can a Pomeranian be left alone?

Not for long. They can get lonely and anxious if left alone too much.

❓ What are common behavior issues in Pomeranians?

✔ Barking too much.
✔ Being stubborn.
✔ Guarding their food or toys.

❓ Do Pomeranians like to be held?

Most Poms love cuddles, but some prefer their space.

Final Thoughts: Is a Pomeranian Right for You?

A Pomeranian can be a wonderful family pet if:
✔ You have time for training and playtime.
✔ You’re okay with grooming them often.
✔ You want a small but lively companion.

If that sounds like you, a Pomeranian might be the perfect addition to your family!